Daud Olatunji
Bishop Matthew Kukah, Catholic Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, has described former U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians as a warning that Nigerian leaders cannot ignore.
Trump had previously labelled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” accusing it of systematic persecution and mass killings of Christians. He also threatened to cut U.S. aid and hinted at possible military intervention to “protect Christians” in the country.
President Bola Tinubu, however, rejected Trump’s claims, affirming that Nigeria remains a democracy anchored on constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion.
“The most important thing is that despite political headwinds, we will continue to engage with partners.
“We are engaging the world diplomatically and assure Nigerians that we will defeat terrorism in this country,” Tinubu said during a recent statement at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Addressing the issue at the 60th birthday celebration of veteran journalist Reuben Abati in Lagos, Kukah said Trump’s warning was symptomatic of deeper issues in Nigeria.
“Trump is a symptom of the disease in our country. Whether it is Trump or anyone else delivering this message, it is time for Nigeria to wake up,” Kukah said.
The cleric lamented the lack of national monuments and tourist sites, which he said reflects Nigeria’s uncertain national identity.
“If somebody comes to visit Nigeria today, where do we take them? We need to reassess and redefine our priorities. Who are the Nigerians whose names resonate across the country without contradiction?” he asked.
Kukah also criticised what he described as the country’s chaotic political culture, pointing out that institutional and moral frameworks needed strengthening.
His comments come amid rising international scrutiny of Nigeria’s handling of religious and security matters, particularly in regions affected by banditry, terrorism, and communal violence.
The archbishop urged leaders to take concrete actions to restore Nigeria’s moral and institutional credibility rather than merely reacting to external pressures.
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